Earlier this week the Columbus Blue Jackets clinched just their second playoff spot in franchise history. They will have to play in those playoffs without their highest paid forward, as Nathan Horton is will undergo abdominal surgery and will be out for six weeks. It is the second major surgery for Horton since joining the Blue Jackets last summer, as he missed the early part of this season with shoulder surgery.
The time frame on the injury likely means that Horton would be able to return only if the Blue Jackets are able to reach the third round or the Stanley Cup playoffs. The Blue Jackets first round opponent has not yet been determined. At this point it could be the Boston Bruins, Pittsburgh Penguins, or New York Rangers depending on results this weekend.
Earlier this week, The 28-year-old Horton became the first player in NHL history to be credited with a goal in a game he did not play. He was credited with the opening goal in the Blue Jackets win over the Dallas Stars. Horton scored to give the Blue Jackets a 1-0 lead on March 10th. That game was eventually postponed when Rich Peverley collapsed on the Dallas bench. The full sixty minute game was replayed, with the Jackets being given a 1-0 lead on Horton’s goal officially at 0:00 of the first period.
Horton has 5 goals and 14 assists for 19 points in 36 games for the Blue Jackets this season. The former Boston Bruin signed a seven-year, $37.1 million deal ($5.3 million AAV) with the Blue Jackets in the off-season.
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